The global molded fiber bowl market size is estimated to be around USD 210.8 million in 2024 and is anticipated to reach a value of USD 291.7 million by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 3.3% over the forecast period.
The demand for molded fiber bowls has witnessed a substantial shift in recent years. This shift is especially compelled by customer preference for home delivery of ready-to-eat food via online food service platforms.
The trend toward on-the-go meal forms is anticipated to gain further traction among millennial customers. This is owing to the rise in urbanization and working-class inhabitants. Resulting, the demand for molded fiber bowls is projected to increase over the subsequent decade.
The food-chain operators are increasingly turning to disposable food service containers, such as molded fiber bowls, cups, plates, cutlery, and other objects. The product integration allows food chains to reduce labor costs associated with cleaning and reserving old containers.
They can focus on improving customer service and quality as a result. The affordability, convenience, and eco-friendliness of molded fiber bowls make the molded fiber packets an attractive option for QSRs and other food service providers.
Manufacturers prefer fiber molding, an environmentally friendly technology utilized in the production of rigid and insulating containers that are ideal for takeaway meal service.
Fiber-molded food containers are extensively used in both business-to-consumer, such as eCommerce, and departmental stores. In recent years molded fiber bowls have been popular in food and beverage packaging, fresh produce packaging, and hotel food packaging.
In the past decade, the packaging industry has glimpsed several shifts owing to the continuous variations in food consumption sensations. As opposed to Styrofoam and plastic packaging, fiber molding is the preferred choice due to its recyclable nature.
Furthermore, aside from useful features like low costs and food hygiene, the ease of stack and grab-and-go features of molded fiber bowls also contribute to the fiber molded bowls popularity.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Global Molded Fiber Bowl Market Size (2024E) | USD 210.8 million |
| Projected Global Molded Fiber Bowl Market Value (2034F) | USD 291.7 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 3.3% |
Don't pay for what you don't need
Customize your report by selecting specific countries or regions and save 30%!
Budding Need for Sustainability to be a Key Trend
Sustainability is a key factor in procurement decisions, with consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging materials. Global regulations promote a circular economy, leading to retailers and manufacturers using post-consumer recycled or renewable content.
The demand for molded fiber is widespread as a compostable alternative to plastic packaging. The compound is a sustainable solution for various industries, as the material breaks down quickly in the natural environment, thereby reducing plastic pollution in oceans and landfills.
The FMCG brands can differentiate the products using molded fiber packaging by communicating strong, sustainable credentials to environmentally conscious customers. The heightened policy push and consumer demand for sustainable options are convincing many companies to adopt molded fiber for food and beverage packaging.
Multiple Sectors Cultivate the Demand for Agro-friendly Packaging Material
The molded fiber bowl market is undergoing a transition due to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly packaging made from renewable and recyclable materials. Non-wood products like wheat and bagasse are also being used for pulp production.
Agro-friendly packaging, made from natural fibers like bamboo, wheat, or sugarcane, is gaining popularity for its environmental benefits. The material also boasts high recycling capabilities, which allow it to be reused up to seven to ten times.
Molded grain pulp is a biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic packaging, reducing the need for raw materials in packaging items. The food and beverage sector is promoting the demand for agro-friendly packaging for the sake of the environment.
For instance, PulPac, creator of Dry Molded Fiber technology, joined the global initiative Two Sides in April 2024, advocating for sustainability in print, paper, and paper packaging.
Improvements in the Fiber Molding Technologies Favored By Manufacturers
Impulse drying is a cost-effective and efficient method for manufacturing molded fiber food bowls using 3D-printed mold tooling. Such a process simplifies production, allows easy branding, and uses creative designs to boost product sales, making it a popular choice in the packaging industry.
Molded fiber bowls are particularly in demand in the food sector. The cushioning properties of these bowls provide excellent protection for food products, preventing damage from impacts on the packaging material. Such a feature has earned the trust of end-users, who value the security supplied by molded fiber food packaging.
Molded fiber bowls and trays are gaining popularity as manufacturers balance cost-effectiveness with high-quality packaging. As the industry evolves, innovations are anticipated to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of this packaging format.
The global market recorded a CAGR of 2.6% between 2019 and 2023. Market growth of molded fiber bowls was positive and reached a value of USD 202.1 million in 2023 from USD 177.5 million in 2019.
The molded fiber bowl market is experiencing a ripple due to improved shopper preference for ready-to-consume food, take-out menus, and home delivery services. The convenience and eco-friendliness of food bowls have contributed to the demand in the food service industry.
Developed economies like the United States and the United Kingdom are anticipated to propel market growth in quick-service restaurants. This is due to the lightweight, durable, and cost-effective packaging they offer. Developing economies such as India and China are increasingly adopting molded fiber bowls due to the popularity of QRS bowls.
Several research studies indicate that the presence of perfluoroalkyl (PFA) in the fiber molding process is anticipated to pose health risks. This could potentially hinder the global growth of molded fiber bowls and prompt manufacturers to research safer, more sustainable alternatives.
Manufacturers and food service providers are increasingly adopting molded fiber bowls as an alternative to single-use plastic and Styrofoam. The sustainable bowls are recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable, making them an eco-friendly packaging option. Such a trend is anticipated to continue as the demand for environmentally friendly packaging alternatives grows in the future.
Principal Consultant
The section below covers the forecast for the molded fiber bowl market in terms of countries. Information on key countries in several parts of the globe, where the demand for sustainable bowls from Asia Pacific countries such as China and India is widespread.
The demand from the United States is displaying a ripple in the market. European countries such as Germany and the United Kingdom are exhibiting the transition in sales of molded fiber bowls in the food service industry.
| Countries | CAGR 2024 to 2034 |
|---|---|
| United States | 2.4% |
| Germany | 2.1% |
| United Kingdom | 2.6% |
| China | 5.7% |
| India | 6.6% |
The sales of molded fiber bowls in the United States are projected to undergo a transition during the forecast period. The growth is foreseen to be manipulated by an assortment of elements. These include the high adoption of advanced technology and the presence of leading packaging manufacturers in the United States.
The United States molded fiber bowl market is estimated to account for a CAGR of 2.4% from 2024 to 2034. This indicates a steady and sustained growth trajectory throughout the forecast period. The development offers a lucrative prospect for manufacturers and businesses operating in the packaging industry. It allows them to tap into the emerging demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions.
The quick service restaurants and the emerging demand for food delivery platforms are driving the demand for molded fiber food packaging in China. As the Western culture of fast food mainly influences the region, the culinary innovators in China are also recreating several authentic Chinese cuisines. These dishes mostly consist of soups, noodles, and rice, which can be served in eco-friendly bowls.
The hotel industry, and restaurants and cafes in China are augmenting the sales of sustainable molded fiber bowls. Based on the rising application in the HoReCa sector, the molded fiber bowl market in China is anticipated to register a CAGR of 5.7% from 2024 to 2034.
The demand for molded fiber bowls in India is anticipated to rise due to their eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness. This makes them a popular choice among environmentally conscious consumers.
India’s molded fiber bowl market is projected to showcase a CAGR of 6.6% in the forecast period. Owing to the Premiumization trend in the country is projected to play a significant role in pushing demand for molded fiber food packaging bowls.
The growing popularity of home delivery and takeout services, especially in the food industry of India, is desired to provide further impetus to the market. Manufacturers in the country are moving toward sustainable packaging solutions to attract youngsters and retain the flavor of edible products.
The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. Manufacturers are mainly utilizing transfer molded bowls based on molded pulp type, which accounts for 51.7% of revenue in 2024. At the same time, food service outlets are growing their popularity, acquiring 32.4% of the revenue share.
| Segment | Transfer Molded (Molded Pulp Type) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 51.7% |
Manufacturers in the food packaging industry are increasingly focusing on the development of transfer molded bowls made from molded pulp. The transparent food packaging trend is attributed to the significant benefits offered by transfer molded pulp, particularly in terms of packaging transparency.
In 2024, transfer-molded bowls are predicted to overwhelm the food packaging industry with a 51.7% market share. This growth is propelled by increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging and the superior quality and durability of transfer-molded pulp.
The transfer molded segment is predicted to experience significant growth due to its lightweight, durable, water-resistant, cost-effective, and reusable properties. Such packaging solutions are created by heating closed-cell foams and molding them into desired shapes using force and suction-forming techniques.
The transfer molded pulp is preferred by businesses for its cost-effectiveness and reusability, making them sustainable packaging options. The popularity of transfer molded bowls is expected to continue due to their versatility and dependability. These are particularly favored in the food and beverage industry, where demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions is growing.
| Segment | Food Service Outlets (End Use) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 32.4% |
Food service outlets account for a significant share of 32.4% of the global molded fiber bowl market in 2024. The fast food service trend can be attributed to the growing popularity of molded fiber bowls as a cost-effective, biodegradable, and convenient packaging solution in the food service sector.
Molded fiber bowls are gaining popularity due to their affordability, cleanliness, and eco-friendliness. These bowls are made from 100% renewable materials and are compostable, making them suitable for environmentally conscious consumers.
The molded fiber food bowls are also stackable and convenient for on-the-go use, making them ideal for cafeterias, fast-food restaurants, and food trucks. The segment is anticipated to experience steady growth and strong sales due to the numerous benefits.
Consumers are seeking sustainable and convenient alternatives to traditional food packaging, and molded fiber bowls are well positioned to meet the demand from food service outlets.
Get the data you need at a Fraction of the cost
Personalize your report by choosing insights you need
and save 40%!
The molded fiber bowl market is currently an active hub of innovation, offering fertile ground for novel ideas in a dynamic ecosystem. Manufacturers of molded fiber trays and bowls are focusing on the development of new products and expanding their geographical presence.
To achieve such goals, the firms are partnering with local brands and start-up companies to create sustainable packaging solutions, such as ecological bowls.
Such a marketing strategy enables companies to broaden their reach and gain more customers. Additionally, the companies are launching recycling programs in urban and remote areas to meet the ever-increasing demand for environmentally friendly packaging.
The stringent ecological measures are a response to the growing environmental concerns of consumers, which have become a major aspect of the market.
Industry Updates
The industry is segmented into thick wall, transfer molded, thermoformed fiber, and processed pulp, based on the molded pulp types.
Based on the distribution channels, the sector is bifurcated into online and offline distribution channels.
End use category include food service outlets, hotels, restaurant and cafes, quick service restaurants (QSR), and household applications.
Key countries of North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East and Africa are covered.
The industry is set to witness a CAGR of 3.3% by 2034.
The industry witnessed a CAGR of 2.6% from 2019 to 2023.
In 2024, the industry stands at USD 210.8 million.
The sector is set to be valued at USD 291.7 million by 2034.
The United States is anticipated to hold a CAGR of 2.4% from 2024 to 2034.
1. Executive Summary
2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition
3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments
4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections
5. Pricing Analysis
6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
6.1. Molded Pulp Type
6.2. Distribution Channel
6.3. End User
7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Molded Pulp Type
7.1. Thick Walled
7.2. Processed Pulp
7.3. Thermoformed
7.4. Transfer Molded
8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Distribution Channel
8.1. Online
8.2. Offline
9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End User
9.1. Hotels
9.2. Restaurant & Cafes
9.3. Quick Service Restaurants (QSR)
9.4. Household
10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region
10.1. North America
10.2. Latin America
10.3. Western Europe
10.4. South Asia
10.5. East Asia
10.6. Eastern Europe
10.7. Middle East & Africa
11. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
12. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
13. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
14. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
15. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
16. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
17. Middle East & Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
18. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by Molded Pulp Type, Distribution Channel, and End User for 30 Countries
19. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
20. Company Profile
20.1. Huhtamaki Oyj
20.2. UFP Technologies, Inc.
20.3. ESCO Technologies, Inc.
20.4. EnviroPAK Corporation
20.5. Brodrene Hartmann A/S.
20.6. Henry Molded Products, Inc.
20.7. OrCon Industries Corporation
20.8. Pactive LLC
20.9. Pacific Pulp Molding, LLC
20.10. Keiding, Inc.
20.11. Southern Champion Tray
Explore Packaging Insights
View Reports
Molded Fiber Bowl Market
